A while back, I stumbled upon a trend where adults enroll in “preschool” classes to reconnect with their playful sides. They engage in activities like coloring, finger painting, and show-and-tell, often spending up to $1,000 for the experience. Seriously? Here’s a thought: why not borrow my child for a few hours while I enjoy a nice dinner and drinks instead?
What really leaves me shaking my head is the number of adults who behave like children, but in the most obnoxious ways. Their manners are often worse than that of a toddler, and frankly, their inner children are a bit rude.
These are the adults who would greatly benefit from a preschool-style refresher course. However, instead of simply enjoying sensory bins, they need to learn a few crucial lessons:
- Cover Your Mouth When Coughing
Last week alone, I saw three people cough indiscriminately in confined spaces, just as cold and flu season was approaching. One of them even turned and coughed directly toward my newborn. I was so shocked that words escaped me, but I shot her a look that would make a toddler proud. Unfortunately, she didn’t notice my disapproval. - Clean Up After Yourself
Reward yourself with a treat if you must, but please do be considerate. Sure, I’m a bit messy at home, but I believe it’s essential to keep public spaces tidy. Watching an adult carelessly sweep muffin crumbs onto the floor of a café made me think that this lesson is overdue. - Line Up Single File
If you’re out with your kids, it’s fine to walk side by side. But please don’t form a horizontal line on the sidewalk and stroll leisurely down the street. It’s not a parade; some of us are trying to get somewhere—often while managing our own little ones who are already slowing us down. - Keep Your Hands to Yourself
This one deserves to be emphasized: DO NOT TOUCH MY BABY. It’s frustrating enough when random strangers invade your personal space during pregnancy. But once your baby is in the public eye, it’s infuriating. My child is brand new and has minimal immunity. Keep your hands to yourself! - Say Please and Thank You
This isn’t optional. If you want something, use polite language. Also, let’s not forget the importance of saying “I’m sorry.” If you’ve done something wrong, learn to genuinely apologize. Unsure how? Consider developing some empathy. - Reflect on Your Actions
Ah, empathy—the skill many seem to have lost. Ask yourself: How would you feel if someone didn’t hold the door open for you while you struggled with a heavy stroller? Or if someone shot you a dirty look for simply sitting next to them at a restaurant? Think about it and don’t treat others poorly. - No Pushing
It’s shocking that I even need to mention this, but after witnessing a chaotic Halloween event, I must. Some parents were elbowing and shoving my cautious 3-year-old out of the way to get candy. If you’re a parent, lead by example, or your children will grow up with poor manners. - Stay Focused on Your Own Actions
It’s easy for anyone to get distracted and lose sight of what they’re doing. This leads to mishaps and stagnation. So, focus on your own behavior instead of judging others, especially in the parenting realm.
These eight guidelines are essential for cultivating respectful and considerate adults. Feel free to print this list and share it with those in need. If they’re not on board? Tough luck. Someone has to step up and model good behavior.
For more insights on parenting, check out our post on at-home insemination kits, as well as this excellent resource on what to expect during your first IUI.
In conclusion, it’s never too late to learn the basics of good manners, and everyone could use a little preschool wisdom in their lives.